The present invention generally relates to the field of switches. Particularly, the present
invention relates to a low current switch for use in automobile applications.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In general, vehicles are equipped with a variety of control switches having different
mechanical and electrical configurations. Generally, the control switches has mechanical
configuration such as a push type or a hinge type or a slide type or a rocker type
configuration etc. and the electrical configuration such as utilization of said switches for high,
low or ultra low current applications.
A variety of vehicle’s control switches are available in the market. While switches having
different mechanical and electrical configurations have been proposed, there is still a need to
provide a switch which is simple in terms of its construction, which is easy to manufacture,
which can be manufactured at a reasonable price, which occupies less space, which has high
precision and which can be used for low current applications.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified format that are
further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither
intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention, and nor is it intended
for determining the scope of the invention.
The present invention relates to a low current switch (100) comprising a housing (102)
including a horizontal separation wall (104). The switch (100) further comprises a base plate
(106) that co-operates with the housing (102) to form a first chamber (C1). The first chamber
(C1) is bound by the base plate (106), the side wall(s) of the housing (102) and the horizontal
separation wall (104). The switch (100) further comprises a deformable member (108) that
co-operates with the housing (102) to form a second chamber (C2). The second chamber (C2)
is bound by the deformable member (108), the side wall(s) of the housing (102) and the
horizontal separation wall (104). Furthermore, the switch comprises a push button switching
element switching element (200, 300, 400). The push button switching element (200, 300,
400) comprises an operating member (208, 308, 408). The push button switching element
(200, 300, 400) is accommodated in the first chamber (C1) such that at least a part of the
operating member (208, 308, 408) traverses via an orifice (114) provided in the horizontal
3
separation wall (104) and protrudes into the second chamber (C2) and is actuatable by the
deformable member (108). The switch (100) further comprises a resilient member (116)
disposed in the second chamber (C2). The resilient member is adapted to provide a restoring
force to the deformable member (108).
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular
description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof,
which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict
only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of
its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail
with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference
will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the
accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally
similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed
description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further
illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with
the present invention where:
Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the low current switch (100) in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 illustrates the low current switch (100) in OFF position in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3 illustrates the low current switch (100) in ON position in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 4 illustrates an exploded view of the push button switching element (200) in
accordance with an another embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 5 illustrates sectional view of the push button switching element (200) in OFF state in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 6 illustrates sectional view of the push button switching element (200) in ON state in
accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 illustrates an exploded view of the push button switching element (300) in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
4
Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of the base plate forming part of the push button
switching element (300) in a part assembled state (having thereupon ONLY the fixed contact
terminals and NOT having the moving contact mechanism) in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of the base plate forming part of the push button
switching element (300) in a fully assembled state (having thereupon the fixed contact
terminals and the moving contact mechanism) in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention;
Figure 10 illustrates sectional view of the operating member forming part of the push button
switching element (300) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 11(a) and 11(b) illustrates sectional views of the push button switching element (300)
in OFF state and in ON state, respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention;
Figure 12 illustrates an exploded view of the push button switching element (400) in
accordance with an another embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 13 illustrates sectional view of the push button switching element (400) in OFF state
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 14 illustrates sectional view of the push button switching element (400) in ON state in
accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to
represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements
in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn
to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be
exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the
present invention. Furthermore, the one or more elements may have been represented in the
drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details
that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to
obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art having benefit of the description herein.
Detailed Description of the Invention:
For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference
will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be
5
used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of
the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated
device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein
being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention
relates.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the
following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be
restrictive thereof.
As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,”
“an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also,
as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the
context clearly dictates otherwise.
Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language
means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus,
appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment” and similar
language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same
embodiment.
The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a
non-exclusive inclusion, such that a device that comprises a list of steps does not include only
those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or
method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or
components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the
existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other
components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or
additional structures or additional components.
As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected
to”, “operably connected to”, “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct
connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other
contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional
6
element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled
with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are
used synonymously.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same
meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention
belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not
intended to be limiting.
The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with
respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention
and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language
in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to
the practice of the invention.
Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not
to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed
individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found
herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for
reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the
specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written
description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the
accompanying drawings.
Referring to Figure 1, which is an exploded view of the low current switch (100). The switch
(100) comprises a housing (102) including a horizontal separation wall (104). The switch
(100) further comprises a base plate (106) that co-operates with the housing (102) to form a
first chamber (C1). The first chamber (C1) is bound by the base plate (106), the side wall(s)
of the housing (102) and the horizontal separation wall (104). The switch (100) further
comprises a deformable member (108) that co-operates with the housing (102) to form a
second chamber (C2). The second chamber (C2) is bound by the deformable member (108),
the side wall(s) of the housing (102) and the horizontal separation wall (104). Furthermore,
the switch comprises a push button switching element (200,300,400). The push button
7
switching element (200,300,400) comprises an operating member (208,308,408). The push
button switching element (200,300,400) is accommodated in the first chamber (C1) such that
at least a part of the operating member (208,308,408) traverses via an orifice (not visible)
provided in the horizontal separation wall (104) and protrudes into the second chamber (C2)
and is actuatable by the deformable member (108).
In an embodiment of the invention, the housing (102) comprises a top open end (102a), a
bottom open end (102b), side wall(s) extending from the top open end (102a) to the bottom
open end (102b) and the horizontal separation wall (104) is located between the top open end
(102a) and the bottom open end (102b).
In an embodiment of the invention, a resilient member (116) is disposed in the second
chamber (C2) and is adapted to provide a restoring force to the deformable member (108). A
first end of the resilient member (116) is in contact with the horizontal separation wall (104)
and the second end of the resilient member (116) is in contact with the deformable member
(108).
Referring to Figure 2, which corresponds to the low current switch (100) being in OFF
position, it can be seen that the deformable member (108) is not actuated.
Referring to Figure 3 which corresponds to the low current switch (100) being in ON
position, it can be seen that when the deformable member (108) is actuated, the deformable
member (108) pushes the operating member (208,308,408) of the push button switching
element (200,300,400). Particularly, the deformable member may undergo deformation and
may undergo marginal displacement in response to being actuated. When the deformable
member (108) is actuating the operating member (208,308,408) of the push button switching
element (200,300,400), the resilient member (116) attains a compressed state and when the
actuation force (as applied on the deformable member (108)) ceases to exist, the resilient
member expands and applies a restoration force on the deformable member (108) thereby
bring the deformable member to the state shown in Figure 2.
Now referring to Figure 4, there is illustrated an exploded view of the push button switching
element (200) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The push button
switching element (200) comprises a casing (202) which defines an open end (202a), and a c
closed end (202b) opposing the open end (202a), the closed end having an aperture (202c)
8
therein. A cap/base (204) is adapted to cooperate with the casing (202) thereby sealing the
open end (202a) of the casing (202). Further, the push button switching element (200)
comprises a pair of fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b). Furthermore, the push button
switching element (200) comprises an operating member (208) adapted to move towards the
cap/base (204) upon actuation. The operating member (208) defines a first end (208a) and a
second end (208b), where in the first end (208a) is adapted to be located outside the casing
(202), and the second end (208b) is adapted to be located within the internal space.
Furthermore, a moving contact mechanism (210) is operably coupled to the operating
member (208), and is adapted to establish an electrical path between the pair of fixed contact
terminals (206a, 206b), upon actuation of the operating member (208).
In an embodiment of the invention, the push button switching element (200) comprises a first
fixed contact terminal (206a) of the pair of fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b) which is
exposed on an inner top surface of the cap/base (204) and a second fixed contact terminal
(206b) of the pair of fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b) that projects along an inner side
wall of the casing (202).
In an embodiment of the invention, a resilient member (212) is disposed so as to establish an
electrical path between the first fixed contact terminal (206a) and the moving contact member
(210). The resilient member is further adapted to apply restoring force on to the operating
member (208).
In an embodiment of the invention, the moving contact member (210) defines a first wall
contacting the resilient member (212). A second wall extends from the first wall so as to face
the inner side wall of the casing (202). Further, a contact making member is disposed on the
one end of the second wall.
Referring to Figure 5, which corresponds to push button switching element (200) in OFF
position, it can be seen that the operating member (208) is not in actuated state. It can be seen
that in this state, the resilient member (212) is in contacting relationship with the first fixed
contact terminal (206a) and the first wall of the moving contact member (210). However, in
this state, the second wall is NOT making a contact with the second fixed contact terminal
(206b). Referring to Figure 6 which corresponds to push button switching element (200) in
ON position, it can be seen that the operating member (208) is being in actuated state. It can
be noticed that upon actuation of the operating member (208), the contact making member
9
slides and abut the second fixed contact terminal (206b) of the pair of fixed contact terminals
(206a, 206b). In this state, the resilient member (212) still continues to be in contacting
relationship with the first fixed contact terminal (206a) and the first wall of the moving
contact member (210) and hence, a electrical path is provided between the first fixed contact
terminal (206a) and the second fixed contact terminal (206b) via the resilient member (212)
and the moving contact member (210).
Now referring to Figure 7, there is illustrated an exploded view of a push button switching
element (300) in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The push
button switching element (300) comprises a casing (302) which defines an open end (302a),
and a closed end (302b) opposite to the open end (302a). The closed end (302b) is having an
aperture (302c) therein. A cap/base (304) is adapted to cooperate with the casing (302)
thereby sealing the open end (302a) of the casing (302). Further, the push button switching
element (300) comprises a pair of fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b). Furthermore, the push
button switching element (300) comprises an operating member (308) adapted to move
towards the cap/base (304) upon actuation. The operating member (308) defines a first end
(308a) and a second end (308b), where in the first end (308a) is adapted to be located outside
the casing (302), and the second end (308b) is adapted to be located within the internal space.
Furthermore, the switching element (300) is provided with a moving contact mechanism
(310) which is adapted to cooperate with the operating member (308), and to establish an
electrical path between the pair of fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b), upon actuation of the
operating member (308).
In an embodiment of the invention, the push button switching element (300) further
comprises a resilient member (312) disposed between the cap/base (304) and the operating
member (308) to provide a restoring force to the operating member (308).
The cap/base (304) is provided with a pair of non-conductive pillars (314a, 314b) that
projects towards the opposing end (302b) of the casing (302). The pair of non-conductive
pillars (314a, 314b) is adapted to hold the fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b). The cap/base
is furthermore adapted to hold the moving contact mechanism (310) in a spaced apart
relationship with respect to the fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b). The operating member
(308), upon actuation, is adapted come in contact with the moving contact mechanism (310)
and move the moving contact mechanism (310) to a location wherein the moving contact
mechanism (310) is in contacting relationship with the fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b).
10
Referring to Figure 8, which is a part assembled view of the cap/base (304), it can be
observed that each non-conductive pillar (314a, 314b) has a pillar back surface (307a1,
307b1) and a pillar top surface (307a2, 307b2) that emanates from the pillar back surface
(307a1, 307b1). The non-conductive pillar (314a, 314b) further comprises a downwardly
projecting pillar surface (307a3, 307b3) that emanates from the pillar top surface (307a2,
307b2). The downwardly projecting pillar surface (307a3, 307b3) is preferably at a
predetermined oblique angle with respect to the pillar top surface (307a2, 307b2). The nonconductive pillar (314a, 314b) further comprises a pillar front surface (307a5, 307b5) which
is joined to the downwardly projecting pillar surface (307a3, 307b3) via an intermediate
projecting pillar surface (307a4, 307b4). Each fixed contact terminal (306a, 306b) is in
contacting relationship with the pillar front surface (307a5, 307b5) of the non-conductive
pillars (314a, 314b).
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a distance between the pillar back surface
(307a1, 307b1) and the fixed contact terminal (306a, 306b) is less than a distance between the
pillar back surface (307a1, 307b1) and the intermediate projecting pillar surface (307a4,
307b4).
On to a cap/base (304) having the construction as described above, the moving contact
mechanism is provided. Referring to Figure 9, there is illustrated a perspective view of the
base plate forming part of the push button switching element (300) in a fully assembled state
i.e. having thereupon the fixed contact terminals and the moving contact mechanism.
The moving contact mechanism (310) comprises a pair of plate members (316a, 316b) joined
together by a connecting plate (318). Each plate member (316a, 316b) has a plate back
surface (316a1, 316b1) and a plate top surface (316a2, 316b2) that emanates from the plate
back surface (316a1, 316b1). Each plate member (316a, 316b) further comprises a
downwardly projecting plate surface (316a3, 316b3) that emanates from the plate top surface
(316a2, 316b2). The downwardly projecting plate surface (316a3, 316b3) is preferably at a
predetermined oblique angle with respect to the plate top surface (316a2, 316b2). The plate
member (316a, 316b) further comprises a front contact making surface (316a5, 316b5) which
is joined to the downwardly projecting plate surface (316a3, 316b3) via an intermediate
projecting plate surface (316a4, 316b4).
11
The connecting plate (318) may couple the pair of plate members (316a, 316b) via their
respective plate back surfaces (316a1, 316b1) or via their respective plate top surfaces
(316a2, 316b2) or via their respective downwardly projecting plate surfaces (316a3, 316b3)
or via their respective intermediate projecting plate surfaces (316a4, 316b4) or via their
respective front contact making surfaces (316a5, 316b5). It being however preferably for the
connecting plate (318) to couple the pair of plate members (316a, 316b) via their respective
plate back surfaces (316a1, 316b1).
In an embodiment of the invention, a distance between the front contact making surface
(316a5, 316b5) and the plate back surface (316a1, 316b1) is less than a distance between the
plate back surface (316a1, 316b1) and the intermediate projecting plate surfaces (316a4,
316b4).
The moving contact mechanism (310) is mounted on to the cap/base (304) such that the
connecting plate (318) and the plate back surfaces (316a1, 316b1) contact the pillar back
surface (307a1, 307b1). The plate top surfaces (316a2, 316b2) are spaced apart from and run
substantially parallel to the pillar top surface (307a2, 307b2). Similarly, the downwardly
projecting plate surfaces (316a3, 316b3) are spaced apart from and run substantially parallel
to the downwardly projecting pillar surface (307a3, 307b3). Likewise, the intermediate
projecting plate surfaces (316a4, 316b4) are spaced apart from and run substantially parallel
to the intermediate projecting pillar surface (307a4, 307b4).
In an non-operated state, the front contact making surface (316a5, 316b5) are spaced from the
fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b) which are provided on the pillar front surface (307a5,
307b5).
Referring to Figure 10, there is illustrated a sectional view of the operating member (308)
that forms part of the push button switching element (300) in accordance with an embodiment
of the invention. The operating member (308) defines a first end (308a) and a second end
(308b), where in the first end (308a) is adapted to be located outside the casing (302), and the
second end (308b) is adapted to be located within the internal space. In an embodiment of the
invention, the operating member (308) defines a cam (308c) protruding from a side of the
second end (308b) of the operating member (308).
12
The cam (308c) is adapted to come in contacting relationship with the moving contact
mechanism (310) as the operating member (308) is longitudinally moved towards the base.
The cam enables the moving contact mechanism (310) to make electrical contact with the
fixed contact terminals (306) by pushing the moving contact mechanism (310) towards the
fixed contact terminals (306) (and more particularly, by pushing the front contact making
surface (316a5, 316b5) towards the fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b)).
Referring to Figure 11 (a), in an OFF state, the operating member (308) (particularly, the
cam (308c) part of the operating member (308)) is physically separated from the moving
contact mechanism (310). Also, as stated above, the moving contact mechanism (310) is
physically separated from the fixed contact terminals (306a).
When the operating member (308) is actuated, the operating member moves downward and
the cam (308c) comes in contact with the moving contact mechanism (310). In particular, the
cam (308c) comes in contact with the downwardly projecting plate surface (316a3, 316b3).
Thereafter, the cam (308c) comes into abutting relationship with the intermediate projecting
plate surfaces (316a4, 316b4). In response to the cam (308c) being in abutting relationship
with the intermediate projecting plate surfaces (316a4, 316b4), the front contact making
surface (316a5, 316b5) comes in contact with the fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b). Thus,
the push button switching element (300) comes to an ON state, which is demonstrated in
Figure 11(b).
When the actuating force ceases to exist, the resilient member (312) starts applying restoring
force on the operating member (308). As the operating member (308) moves back (i.e.
upwards), the cam (308c) gets separated from the intermediate projecting plate surfaces
(316a4, 316b4), due to which the front contact making surface (316a5, 316b5) gets separated
from the fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b). Thus, the push button switching element (300)
reverts back to the OFF state as shown in Figure 11(a).
Now referring to Figure 12, there is illustrated an exploded view of a push button switching
element (400) in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The push
button switching element (400) comprises a casing (402) which defines an open end (402a),
and a closed end (402b) opposite to the open end (402a). The closed end (402b) has an
aperture (402c) therein. A cap/base (404) is adapted to cooperate with the casing (402)
thereby sealing the open end (402a) of the casing (402). Further, the push button switching
13
element (400) comprises a pair of fixed contact terminals (406a, 406b). Furthermore, the push
button switching element (400) further comprises an operating member (408) adapted to
move towards the cap/base (404) upon actuation. The operating member (408) defines a first
end (408a) and a second end (408b), where in a first end (408a) is adapted to be located
outside the casing (402), and a second end (408b) is adapted to be located within the internal
space. Furthermore, a moving contact mechanism (410) is operably coupled to the operating
member (408), and is adapted to establish an electrical path between the pair of fixed contact
terminals (406a, 406b), upon actuation of the operating member (408).
In an embodiment of the invention, the push button switching element (400) further
comprises a first resilient member (412) disposed between operating member (408) and the
moving contact mechanism (410) to provide a positive force to the moving contact
mechanism (410). In an embodiment of the invention, the push button switching element
(400) further comprises a second resilient member (414) disposed between the cap/base (404)
and the operating member (408) to provide a restoring force to the operating member (408).
In an embodiment of the invention, the moving contact mechanism (410) comprises a plate
member (416) and a pair of contact making members (418a, 418b) formed at the lateral ends
of the plate member (416).
Referring to Figure 13, which illustrates sectional view of the push button switching element
(400) in an OFF position, it can be seen that the operating member (408) is not actuated and
the moving contact mechanism (410) is separated from the pair of fixed contact terminals
(406a, 406b). Referring to Figure 14, which illustrates sectional view of the push button
switching element (400) in an ON position, it can be seen that when the operating member
(408) is actuated, the moving contact mechanism (410) to come in contact with the pair of
fixed contact terminals to establish an electrical path there between. Hence, the contact
making members (418a, 418b) formed at the lateral ends of the plate member (416) abuts the
pair of fixed contact terminals (406a, 406b) which provides a cleaning action and in turn,
helps in breaking the oxidation layer formed on the contacts. This self-cleaning action
ensures better operation and tends to improve the service life of the push button switching
element (300).
The second resilient member (414) goes to a compressed state during actuation of the
operating member (408) and when the actuation force ceases to exist, the second resilient
14
member (414) applies a restoration force on the operating member (408) thereby breaking the
contact between the moving contact mechanism (410) and the pair of fixed contact terminals
(406a, 406b) and brings the push button switching element (400) to the state shown in Figure
13.
In an embodiment of the invention, the second portion (208b, 308b, 408b) of the operating
member (208, 308, 408) is provided with a guiding means that can guide along guiding tracks
made in the side walls of the casing (202, 302, 402). This imparts stable and proper to and fro
actuation of the switch.
In an embodiment of the invention, a protective member (214, 320,420) is linked to the
operating member (208,308,408) to reduce ingress of dust, dirt, water, foreign matter, grease,
contamination material, etc. The protective member (214,320,420) ensures an extra level of
protection to the push button switching element (200,300,400) from harmful environmental
conditions.
Referring back to Figure 1, in an embodiment of the invention, the horizontal separation wall
(104) may have tapered structure with drain holes along the surface of the wall in order to
drain out the contamination such as dust, dirt or water.
In an embodiment of the invention, the side wall (s) has a first set of female engaging
members (118a) and a second set of female engaging members (118b). The first set of female
engaging members (118a) sealingly engage with male engaging members (120a) extending
from the base plate (106) while the second set of female engaging members (118b) sealingly
engage with the male engaging members (120b) extending from the deformable knob (108).
This fitment provides proper sealing and fitment to the switch.
Although not illustrated, in an embodiment of the invention, the side wall (s) has a first set of
male engaging members (120a) and a second set of male engaging members (120b). The first
set of male engaging members (120a) sealingly engage with female engaging members
(118a) provided in the base plate (106) and the second set of male engaging members (120b)
sealingly engage with female engaging members (118b) provided in the deformable member
(108).
Although not illustrated, in an embodiment of the invention, the side wall (s) has a set of
male engaging members (120a) and a set of female engaging members (118a). The set of
15
male engaging members (120a) sealingly engage with female engaging members (118b)
provided in the base plate (106) while the set of female engaging members (118a) sealingly
engage with male engaging members (120b) provided in the deformable member (108).
Although not illustrated, in an embodiment of the invention, the side wall (s) has a set of
female engaging members (118a) and a set of male engaging members (120a). The set of
female engaging members (118a) sealingly engage with male engaging members (120b)
provided in the base plate (106) while the set of male engaging members (120a) sealingly
engage with female engaging members (118b) provided in the deformable member (108).
Although not illustrated, in an embodiment of the invention, the first set of female engaging
members (118a) snap fit or interlock the male engaging members (120a) extending from the
base plate (106). In an embodiment of the invention, the second set of female engaging
members (118b) snap fit or interlock the male engaging members (120b) extending from the
deformable member (108).
In an embodiment of the invention, the height of the male engaging members (120a)
extending from the base plate (106) is less than the height of the first chamber (C1). In an
embodiment of the invention, the height of the male engaging members (120b) extending
from the deformable member (108) is less than the height of the second chamber (C2).
In an embodiment of the invention, the push button switching element (200, 300,400)
comprises fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b; 306a, 306b; 406a, 406b), the said fixed
contact terminals (206a, 206b; 306a, 306b; 406a, 406b) traverse out via orifices (124)
provided in the base plate (106) and are separated by a rib (126).
In an embodiment of the invention, the base plate (106) may have securing means or walls to
secure the push button switching element (200, 300,400) in place.
While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on
account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various
working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive
concept as taught herein.
The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the
art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a
16
single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple
functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment.
For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the
manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be
implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed.
Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the
other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.
Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences
in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at
least as broad as given by the following claims.

WE CLAIM:

1. A low current switch (100), comprising:
a housing (102) including a horizontal separation wall (104);
a base plate (106) co-operating with the housing (102) to form a first chamber (C1);
the first chamber (C1) being bound by the base plate (106), the side wall(s) of the
housing (102) and the horizontal separation wall (104);
a deformable member (108) co-operating with the housing (102) to form a second
chamber (C2) ; the second chamber (C2) being bound by the deformable member
(108), the side wall(s) of the housing (102) and the horizontal separation wall (104);
and
a push button switching element (200, 300, 400) comprising an operating member
(208, 308, 408), the push button switching element (200, 300, 400) being
accommodated in the first chamber (C1) such that at least a part of the operating
member (208, 308, 408) traverses via an orifice (114) provided in the horizontal
separation wall (104) and protrudes into the second chamber (C2) and is actuatable by
the deformable member (108).
2. The low current switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing (102) comprises a
top open end (102a), a bottom open end (102b), side wall(s) extending from the top
open end (102a) to the bottom open end (102b) and the horizontal separation wall
(104) is located between the top open end (102a) and the bottom open end (102b).
3. The low current switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein a resilient member (116) is
disposed in the second chamber (C2) and is adapted to provide a restoring force to the
deformable member (108).
4. The low current switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the push button switching
element (200, 300, 400) comprising:
a casing (202, 302, 402) defining an open end (202a, 302a, 402a) and a closed end
(202b, 302b, 402b) opposing the open end (202a, 302a, 402a), the closed end (202b,
302b, 402b) having an aperture (202c, 302c, 402c) therein;
a cap/base (204, 304, 404) adapted to cooperate with the casing (202, 302, 402)
thereby sealing the open end (202a, 302a, 402a) of the casing (202, 302, 402);
a pair of fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b; 306a, 306b; 406a, 406b);
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an operating member (208, 308, 408) adapted to move towards the cap/base (304,
304, 404) upon actuation, the operating member (208, 308, 408) defining a first end
(208a, 308a, 408a) adapted to be located outside the casing (202, 302, 402), and a
second end (208b, 308b, 408b) adapted to be located within the internal space; and
a moving contact mechanism (210, 310, 410) adapted to establish an electrical path
between the pair of fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b; 306a, 306b; 406a, 406b),
upon actuation of the operating member (208, 308, 408).
5. The low current switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the push button switching
element (200, 300, 400) further comprises a resilient member (212, 312, 414)
disposed between the cap/base (204, 304, 404) and the operating member (208, 308,
408) to provide a restoring force to the operating member (208, 308, 408).
6. The low current switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein a first fixed contact terminal
(206a) of the pair of fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b) is exposed on a top surface
of the cap/base (204) and a second fixed contact terminal (206b) of the pair of fixed
contact terminals (206a, 206b) projects along an inner side wall of the casing (202).
7. The low current switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein a resilient member (212) is
disposed so as to establish an electrical path between the first fixed contact terminal
(206a) and the moving contact mechanism (210).
8. The low current switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the moving contact mechanism
(210) comprises:
a first wall contacting the resilient member (212);
a second wall extending from the first wall, the second wall facing the inner side wall
of the casing (202); and
a contact making member disposed on the one end of the second wall, such that upon
actuation, the contact making member slides and abuts the second fixed contact
terminal (206b) of the pair of fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b).
9. The low current switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the cap/base (304) is provided
with a pair of non-conductive pillars (314a, 314b) projecting towards the opposing
end (302b) of the casing (302).
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10. The low current switch as claimed in claim 9, wherein each non-conductive pillar
(314a, 314b) comprises:
a pillar back surface (307a1, 307b1);
a pillar top surface (307a2, 307b2) that emanates from the pillar back surface (307a1,
307b1);
a downwardly projecting pillar surface (307a3, 307b3) that emanates from the pillar
top surface (307a2, 307b2),the downwardly projecting pillar surface (307a3, 307b3) is
preferably at a predetermined oblique angle with respect to the pillar top surface
(307a2, 307b2);
a pillar front surface (307a5, 307b5) which is joined to the downwardly projecting
pillar surface (307a3, 307b3) via an intermediate projecting pillar surface (307a4,
307b4).
11. The low current switch as claimed in claim 10, wherein each non-conductive pillar
(314a, 314b) are adapted to hold the pair of fixed contact terminals (306a, 306b), such
that each non-conductive pillar (314a, 314b) is provided with a fixed contact terminal
(306a, 306b) adjacent to the pillar front surface (307a5, 307b5).
12. The low current switch as claimed in claim 10, wherein the operating member (308)
defines a cam (308c) protruding from a side of the second end (308b) of the operating
member (308) that contacts and actuates the moving contact mechanism (310) as the
operating member (308) is longitudinally moved towards the base.
13. The low current switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the moving contact mechanism
(310) comprises a pair of plate members (316a, 316b) joined together by a connecting
plate (318); each plate member (316a, 316b) comprises:
a plate back surface (316a1, 316b1);
a plate top surface (316a2, 316b2) that emanates from the plate back surface (316a1,
316b1);
a downwardly projecting plate surface (316a3, 316b3) that emanates from the plate
top surface (316a2, 316b2); the downwardly projecting plate surface (316a3, 316b3)
is preferably at a predetermined oblique angle with respect to the plate top surface
(316a2, 316b2);
a front contact making surface (316a5, 316b5) which is joined to the downwardly
projecting plate surface (316a3, 316b3) via an intermediate projecting plate surface
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(316a4, 316b4), such that upon actuation the front contact making surface (316a5,
316b5) makes contact with the fixed contact terminal (306a, 306b).
14. The low current switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the push button switching
element (400) further comprises a first resilient member (412) disposed between
operating member (408) and the moving contact mechanism (410) to provide a
positive force to the moving contact mechanism (410) and a second resilient member
(414) disposed between the cap/base (404) and the operating member (408) to provide
a restoring force to the operating member (408).
15. The low current switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein the moving contact mechanism
(410) comprises:
a plate member (416);
a pair of contact making members (418a, 418b) formed at the lateral ends of the plate
member (416), such that upon actuation, the first contact making member (418a)
comes in contact with a first fixed contact terminal (406a) and the second contact
making members (418b) comes in contact with a second fixed contact terminal
(406b).
16. The low current switch as claimed in claim 4, wherein a protective member (214, 320,
420) is provided on the operating member (208, 308, 408) to seal/protect the
operating member (208, 308, 408).
17. The low current switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the side walls has a first set of
female engaging members (118a) to sealingly engage with a set of male engaging
members (120a) extending from the base plate (106).
18. The low current switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the side walls has a second set
of female engaging members (118b) to sealingly engage with the male engaging
members (120b) extending from the deformable knob (108).
19. The low current switch as claimed in any of claims 17 or 18, wherein the first set of
female engaging members (118a) snap fit or interlock the male engaging members
(120a) extending from the base plate (106) and the second set of female engaging
members (118b) snap fit or interlock the male engaging members (120b) extending
from the deformable member (108).
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21. The low current switch as claimed in claim 16, wherein the height of the male
engaging members (120a) extending from the base plate (106) is less than the height
of the first chamber (C1).
22. The low current switch as claimed in claim 17, wherein the height of the male
engaging members (120b) extending from the deformable member (108) is less than
the height of the second chamber (C2).
23. The low current switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the push button switching
element (200, 300,400) comprises fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b; 306a, 306b;
406a, 406b), the said fixed contact terminals (206a, 206b; 306a, 306b; 406a, 406b)
traverse out via orifices provided in the base plate (106) and are separated by a rib.